Crew Member Shares Depression In the Wake of ‘Tsunami of Harassment Post-Spaceflight
A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her battle with depression after facing a “tsunami of harassment” in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.
Amanda Nguyen – recognized as a researcher and activist – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also carried well-known figures.
The high-profile flight was heavily criticized by some, who cited its expense and ecological impact.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Ms. Nguyen, who became the first Vietnamese woman in space, stated the intense backlash buried her dreams under an torrent of sexist abuse.
“I explained the depression could persist for a long time,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a social media post, recalling a check-in call from a mission companion in the days following the journey.
She described the press attention and digital reaction as an “onslaught no human brain has evolved to endure”.
“Stuck in Texas, I spent a week unable to rise from my bed,” she confessed. “Even a month on, a phone call ended with me hanging up, weeping uncontrollably.”
Overshadowed by Sexism
The researcher, who has conducted studies in gynecological science and operated research during the flight, said everything she had worked for – including her lab work and astronaut training to the symbolic importance of her background – was buried under the deluge of misogyny.
She is best known for her pioneering work fighting for justice for survivors of assault.
Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after an attack during her university years, leading to a protracted legal battle.
A Path to Recovery
In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she expressed gratitude the followers whose kindness pulled her through. “You all saved me,” she said.
She concluded that amid the criticism, significant positive outcomes had emerged from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and new advocacy opportunities.
The Historic Journey
The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in the spring, carrying the historic roster on a short trip that passed the internationally recognized boundary of outer space.
The team of pioneers also included leaders in various fields.
The enterprise behind the flight is a private space firm established by a well-known tech mogul.